Local News

Governor Sanwo-Olu Appoints Lekan Fatodu DG Lagos State Sport Commission

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has appointed the renowned development expert and youth advocate, Lekan Fatodu, as the new Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC). This strategic move aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s dedicated efforts to reposition the sports sector in the state, with the aim of unlocking the inherent talents of its vibrant population for economic growth and development.

Fatodu brings to this role over 18 years of extensive experience in international development, strategic communications, and diplomacy. His background as a development expert and sports and fitness enthusiast positions him uniquely to lead the Lagos State Sports Commission into a new era of excellence and innovation.

Prior to this appointment, Fatodu served as the Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to Governor Sanwo-Olu on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), where he distinguished himself through the implementation of a wide array of impactful initiatives.

His exemplary leadership played a key role in conceptualizing, planning, and executing initiatives that addressed various aspects of sustainable development, touching on areas such as poverty alleviation, environmental conservation, and social equality.

He was the lead consultant at CheckOut Communications Ltd, a development, digital solutions, and strategic communications firm and the producer of the highly successful entrepreneurship forum, the Africa Shapers Initiative, a platform for the exchange of great ideas between established and aspiring entrepreneurs on the continent.
In his new role as the DG of the Lagos State Sports Commission,

Fatodu will be instrumental in supporting Governor Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda, particularly from the perspective of sports development. His focus will be on maximizing the leverage of sports as an effective tool for talent growth, human capital development, social inclusion, gender equality, and peace, among other social goods that can be derived from purposeful sports development.

Fatodu’s extensive global network has already facilitated greater support and initiatives from the international development space to Africa, and Nigeria in particular which is opening up opportunities for the country to tap into invaluable skills and resources to confront its development challenges more effectively.

Recently, Fatodu attracted notable Nigerians in the world of international basketball, football, and table tennis to Lagos who generously donated sporting gear worth millions of naira to aspiring young athletes at the grassroots level as these budding athletes acquired invaluable insights and education in their respective sporting interests.

In addition to his professional achievements, Fatodu has received numerous recognitions and awards, including the “Most Outstanding Entrepreneur” by Strides Media UK in 2011 and being named for “Outstanding Achievement and Exemplary Public Endeavors” by the University of Lagos Alumni Association, Lagos State Chapter in 2014.

Fatodu is a proud graduate of the University of Lagos, Nigeria, where he obtained a degree in Mass Communication. He furthered his education at the University of Westminster, London, where he earned a master’s degree in Diplomatic Studies.

Governor Sanwo-Olu expresses confidence in Fatodu’s ability to bring fresh perspectives, international networks, and a passion for sports development to the forefront of the Lagos State Sports Commission. This appointment reflects the administration’s commitment to tapping into the diverse talents within the state and fostering an environment where sports can thrive as a significant contributor to the overall well-being and economic prosperity of Lagos State.

His ability to foster collaboration between government agencies, private sector partners, and community stakeholders will significantly contribute to the advancement of the sports sector in Lagos State.

Known for his well-traveled and connected persona, the Lagos State Sports Commission looks forward to the dynamic leadership of Fatodu and anticipates exciting developments that will elevate sports in the state to new heights.

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Local News

Fikayo Tomori Explains Why He Chose England Over Nigeria

Fikayo Tomori in England national team jersey

AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori has opened up on his decision to represent England on the international stage, explaining that the Nigerian Football Federation never officially contacted him.

Tomori, who initially represented Canada at youth level, later switched allegiance to England, earning five senior caps to date. While several English youth internationals with Nigerian heritage, including Ola Aina, Alex Iwobi, and Ademola Lookman, have opted for the Super Eagles, Tomori’s path led him to the Three Lions.

Tomori On His Decision

Speaking on the Filthy Fellas Podcast, Tomori outlined how England reached out after his stint with Canada’s youth team:

“I was playing for the Canada youth team, but about four months later, the England Academy manager reached out about the possibility of switching over. The next international break, England called me, and I knew I had to go. I thought if I said no, would I ever get a call-up again?”

He added that the transition felt natural because many of his Chelsea teammates, like Tammy Abraham, were already in the England setup.

“It didn’t feel different [from Canada] because all my friends were in there… it felt like Chelsea again,” Tomori said.

Nigeria’s Missed Opportunity

Tomori admitted that if Nigeria had made an approach, he might have considered playing for the Super Eagles.

“If it was Nigeria, I’d have gone,” he stated.

However, he clarified that no official call ever came, leaving him with no real choice.

“Would I have changed to Nigeria from England? I don’t know because at the time, I was playing for Chelsea, so I thought I would play for England. It’s not like I wouldn’t have played there, but they never called me, so I never had a choice to make.”

As Tomori continues to establish himself in Serie A with Milan, he now focuses on securing a spot in England’s 2026 World Cup squad, hoping to make his mark on football’s biggest stage.

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Local News

Wilfred Ndidi Backed By Sunday Oliseh As The Next Super Eagles Captain

Sunday Oliseh Supports Wilfred Ndidi For Super Eagles Captaincy

The conversation around the future leadership of the Super Eagles just got louder—and a lot more interesting.
Former Super Eagles head coach Sunday Oliseh has openly declared his preferred choice for the next captain… and his pick is none other than midfield powerhouse Wilfred Ndidi.

With William Troost-Ekong officially hanging up his international boots, the captain’s armband is now up for grabs. But if Oliseh had his way? The decision is easy.

Why Oliseh Wants Ndidi To Lead Nigeria

On his podcast, Oliseh Insight, the former Juventus and Dortmund star explained why Ndidi stands out among all current Super Eagles players. According to him, the Leicester-turned-Besiktas midfielder commands massive respect, shows unmatched professionalism, and consistently gives his all every game.

Oliseh put it plainly:

“At the moment, I think nobody doubts the respect the players have for Ndidi. And he’s a player that plays every game.”

This isn’t surprising. Ndidi has built a reputation as one of Africa’s most reliable midfielders—calm, disciplined, hardworking, and battle-tested.

Leadership To Match The Moment

Oliseh, known for bold captaincy calls (remember when he chose Musa over Mikel?), believes Nigeria’s next skipper must be more than a figurehead.
To him, the Super Eagles need a leader who:

Inspires the squad
Commands respect naturally
Communicates effectively
Represents the team with integrity
Leads on and off the pitch—not just someone who follows NFF instructions

In his words, the armband shouldn’t just be decorative. It should mean direction, strength, and identity. And Ndidi, in his view, fits that profile perfectly.

A New Era For The Super Eagles?

The timing of this debate couldn’t be more crucial. Nigeria is gearing up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where they’ll face Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania in Group C.

Leadership matters in tournaments. Momentum matters. And the right captain could set the tone for the entire journey toward Morocco.

Will Ndidi rise as the next leader?
Will the NFF agree with Oliseh?
Or will another name emerge from the squad?

Whatever happens, the conversation is officially on—and the sports world is paying attention.

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Local News

William Troost-Ekong Bows Out: An Emotional Farewell That Shakes Up The Super Eagles Camp

William Troost-Ekong Bows Out In Emotional Goodbye

Super Eagles fans woke up to unexpected news as captain William Troost-Ekong officially announced his retirement from international football. Despite being listed in Eric Chelle’s 54-man provisional squad for AFCON 2025, the 2023 AFCON MVP revealed via a heartfelt video on X (formerly Twitter) that his journey with Nigeria had reached its final chapter.

The announcement came with a touching message:
“HONOURED. GRATEFUL. FOREVER A SUPER EAGLE. Playing for Nigeria has been the greatest privilege of my life. The journey may end here, but my support never will. Here’s to the next chapter.”

With 83 caps in 10 years, Ekong leaves behind a legacy of leadership, consistency, and unmatched patriotism. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the 2023 AFCON final and became one of the most respected voices in the national team.

Why Now? A Transition Already In Motion

In recent months, Troost-Ekong’s role had gradually shifted. The impressive rise of 20-year-old Benjamin Fredrick pushed him out of the starting XI, reducing the captain to a bench role. One of the most emotional revelations was his admission that he was supposed to take a penalty in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifier shootout against DR Congo—but being benched meant he couldn’t step up.

Still, Ekong showed class:
“I wasn’t frustrated; I just wanted to win this game… My role is to support the team as much as possible, both on and off the pitch.”

He had also hinted earlier this year that AFCON 2025 might be his final tournament, showing that this transition wasn’t entirely sudden—it was coming.

Ndidi Tipped To Take The Captain’s Armband

The big question now is: who leads the Super Eagles?
Former coach Sunday Oliseh believes the answer is simple—Wilfred Ndidi.

Ndidi has captained the team in recent matches and commands full respect in the squad. According to Oliseh:
“Nobody doubts the respect the players have for Ndidi. And he’s a player that plays every game.”

With AFCON 2025 approaching quickly, stability is crucial—and Ndidi might be the perfect bridge into Nigeria’s next era.

A Legacy Forever Etched In Nigerian Football

Troost-Ekong leaves as a true patriot: admired, respected, and loved. His leadership transcended the pitch—he was the voice of calm, the anchor in tough moments, and the embodiment of commitment.

For the Super Eagles, a new chapter begins.
But for fans, William Troost-Ekong will always remain a Super Eagle—forever.